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Symptoms

What is a normal period for one woman may not be normal for you—your period may last longer, or your flow may be heavier. Here are some general guidelines on normal versus heavy periods:

Normal period

Blood lost: 2-3 tablespoons1

Bleeding occurs about every 21-35 days2

Bleeding lasts 3-5 days for most women2

Heavy period

Bleeding lasts longer than 7 days1

You may need additional protection (a tampon and a pad)

Your period affects your daily activities

Your tampon or pad needs to be changed frequently

You pass clots the size of a quarter or larger1

Studies show that heavy periods can mean much more than heavy bleeding. They can affect you in a number of ways:

Physically

Feeling tired and nauseated

Bad cramps

Headaches

Socially

Missing social or athletic events3

Avoiding sex4

Missing work3

Emotionally

Depression or moodiness4

Feeling anxious3

A lack of confidence during your period3

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be much more than an inconvenience. You may have severe abdominal pain when you get your period, which may be painful enough to require medication or surgery.

The blood loss of heavy bleeding can also cause iron-deficiency anemia, which means the iron levels in the body are low. Low iron can reduce the levels of hemoglobin, a substance in the blood that enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of mild anemia; more severe anemia can also cause shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, lightheadedness and headaches.